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Calling Sandoval
SUP. GERARDO Sandoval may be the last best hope for an attempt to check the growth of big-box retail stores. On April 5, Mayor Willie Brown vetoed legislation requiring developers to get a special permit before building stores larger than 50,000 square feet. The proposed law, championed by Board of Supervisors president Tom Ammiano, wouldn't prohibit so-called big-box stores, but it would erect a few hurdles in the way of projects such as the controversial Home Depot located between Bayview and Bernal Heights. It's a sensible measure that would protect small, locally owned businesses and give neighborhoods more control over development. Brown says the measure would stifle job growth and tax revenues. But in fact, big-box stores can take a sizable bite out of local economies by forcing smaller competitors out of business (see "Home Creepo," 1/23/02). So far the measure hasn't garnered enough board support to combat the mayor's veto. Sups. Tony Hall, Gavin Newsom, Sophie Maxwell, and Sandoval voted against the measure, leaving Ammiano one vote short of the eight needed to override a veto. But there's still time for Sandoval – who usually sides with neighborhoods over developers – to reconsider the issue. If Ammiano can't be persuaded to change his position, he should draw up a compromise measure that could garner one more vote and still give the neighborhoods a chance against the chains. |
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